An image forming apparatus includes a printer unit; at least one of a copier unit and a facsimile unit; a lockable tray with a lock, to store a recording medium; an image formation controller to control at least one of the printer unit, the copier unit, and the facsimile unit in response to a request from a user. In response to a print request for printing using the lockable tray, the image formation controller determines whether the print request is from a user authorized to use the lockable tray based on association information between the lockable tray and the user authorized, and causes the printer unit to perform printing when the print request is from the user authorized. When the request is directed to the copier or facsimile unit, the image formation controller prohibits the copier or facsimile unit from performing printing using the lockable tray.
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1. An image forming apparatus comprising: at least one of a copying device and a facsimile device; an interface configured to interface with a terminal device; a printing device configured to print a print image on recording medium; a plurality of trays including at least one unlockable tray and at least one lockable tray, the at least one unlockable tray configured to store unsecured recording medium of the recording medium, and the at least one lockable tray configured to store secured recording medium of the recording medium, the at least one lockable tray including a lock; a memory configured to store information indicating at least which of the plurality of trays is the at least one lockable tray; and an image formation controller configured to, determine, based on the information, which of the plurality of trays are the at least one lockable tray, generate a display associated with selecting one of the plurality of trays such that selection of the at least one lockable tray is disabled for the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device, receive a print request from a user of the terminal device, determine, based on the information, whether the user is authorized to use the at least one lockable tray in printing, cause the printing device to perform printing of the print image onto the secured recording medium in the at least one lockable tray in response to the print request being from the user authorized to use the at least one lockable tray in printing, and cause the printing device to perform printing of the print image from the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device onto the unsecured recording medium in a selected one of the at least one unlockable tray in response to receipt of the print image from the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device.
The invention relates to an image forming apparatus, such as a copier or facsimile machine, designed to manage secure and unsecured printing. The apparatus includes an interface for connecting to a terminal device, a printing device for printing images on recording media, and multiple trays. These trays include at least one unlockable tray for storing unsecured recording media and at least one lockable tray for storing secured recording media, with the lockable tray featuring a locking mechanism. The apparatus stores information identifying which trays are lockable and uses this data to control access. When a user submits a print request, the apparatus determines if the user is authorized to use the lockable tray. If authorized, the printing device prints on the secured media in the lockable tray. For copying or faxing operations, the apparatus prints on unsecured media in an unlockable tray, ensuring that only authorized users can access secured media. This system enhances security by restricting access to sensitive documents while allowing unrestricted access to standard printing tasks.
2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: a communication controller configured to, communicate with an external server apparatus; and acquire the information from the external server apparatus.
The invention relates to an image forming apparatus designed to enhance functionality by integrating external data acquisition. The apparatus includes a communication controller that enables communication with an external server apparatus. This controller is configured to acquire information from the server, which can be used to improve the apparatus's operations. The acquired information may include updates, settings, or other data relevant to the apparatus's functions. By retrieving this information from an external source, the apparatus can dynamically adapt to new requirements or conditions without manual intervention. This feature ensures that the apparatus remains up-to-date and optimized for performance. The communication controller facilitates seamless data exchange, allowing the apparatus to leverage external resources for enhanced efficiency and reliability. This integration of external data acquisition improves the apparatus's versatility and operational capabilities, making it more adaptable to changing environments or user needs. The invention addresses the need for image forming devices to access and utilize external data to maintain optimal functionality and performance.
3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the image formation controller is configured to: determine whether the print image included in the print request satisfies a print image condition in response to the print request being from the terminal device, and cancel the print request in response to the print image not satisfying the print image condition.
This invention relates to an image forming apparatus designed to enhance print security by evaluating print requests before execution. The apparatus includes an image formation controller that checks whether a print image meets predefined conditions when a print request is received from a terminal device. If the print image fails to satisfy these conditions, the controller automatically cancels the print request, preventing unauthorized or inappropriate printing. The print image conditions may include criteria such as content type, file format, or security attributes, ensuring only compliant print jobs proceed. This feature helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and reduces wasteful printing of non-compliant documents. The apparatus integrates with terminal devices to enforce print policies, improving security and operational efficiency in environments where print control is critical. The system may also include a communication interface for receiving print requests and a storage unit for storing print data, supporting seamless integration with existing networked printing systems. By automatically filtering non-compliant print jobs, the apparatus minimizes manual intervention and enhances security in shared or high-risk printing environments.
4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the print image condition is whether an area size of an image portion to be printed on the secured recording medium is equal to or greater than a threshold.
This invention relates to image forming apparatuses designed to enhance security by controlling printing based on image characteristics. The apparatus includes a printing unit that prints images on a recording medium, a securing unit that secures the recording medium to prevent unauthorized removal, and a control unit that determines whether to allow printing based on a print image condition. The print image condition evaluates whether the area size of the image portion to be printed on the secured recording medium meets or exceeds a predefined threshold. If the condition is satisfied, the control unit permits printing; otherwise, it restricts printing to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. The apparatus ensures that only significant or critical image portions are printed on secured media, reducing the risk of data exposure. The securing unit may use mechanical or adhesive methods to hold the recording medium in place, while the control unit dynamically assesses the image area to enforce security policies. This system is particularly useful in environments where confidential documents require strict access control.
5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the print image condition is whether the print image to be printed covers a set position on the secured recording medium fed from the at least one lockable tray.
This invention relates to image forming apparatuses, specifically those designed to enhance security by controlling print output based on the position of printed content relative to a predefined area on a recording medium. The apparatus includes at least one lockable tray that holds secured recording media, such as documents with sensitive information. The apparatus determines whether a print image to be printed covers a specific set position on the recording medium fed from the lockable tray. If the print image does not cover this position, the apparatus may restrict or modify the printing process to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive areas. This ensures that confidential information remains protected by verifying the intended placement of printed content before execution. The system may integrate with authentication mechanisms to further secure access to the lockable trays and the printing process. The invention addresses the need for secure document handling in environments where unauthorized access to printed materials poses a risk.
6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: an operation panel configured to accept the selection for the image forming apparatus, wherein the image formation controller is configured to prohibit the operation panel from accepting the selection of the at least one lockable tray for the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device.
This invention relates to an image forming apparatus with enhanced security features for controlling access to specific trays. The apparatus includes a copying device, a facsimile device, and at least one lockable tray for storing media. A controller manages image formation operations and can restrict access to certain trays based on user permissions. The apparatus further includes an operation panel that allows users to select trays for printing or copying tasks. The controller can disable the operation panel's ability to select at least one lockable tray when the apparatus is operating in a copying or facsimile mode, preventing unauthorized access to restricted trays. This ensures that sensitive or confidential media stored in locked trays remains secure during copying or faxing operations. The system enhances security by preventing accidental or intentional selection of restricted trays, maintaining compliance with data protection regulations. The invention is particularly useful in environments where multiple users share the same device, such as offices or shared workspaces.
7. An image forming system comprising: an image forming apparatus including: at least one of a copying device and a facsimile device, a printing device configured to print a print image on recording medium, a plurality of trays including at least one unlockable tray and at least one lockable tray, the at least one unlockable tray configured to store unsecured recording medium of the recording medium, and the at least one lockable tray configured to store secured recording medium of the recording medium, the at least one lockable tray including a lock, a memory configured to store information indicating at least which of the plurality of trays is the at least one lockable tray, and an image formation controller configured to, determine, based on the information, which of the plurality of trays are the at least one lockable tray, generate a display associated with selecting one of the plurality of trays such that selection of the at least one lockable tray is disabled for the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device, receive a print request from a user, determine, based on the information, whether the user is authorized to use the at least one lockable tray in printing; and cause the printing device to perform printing of the print image onto the secured recording medium in the at least one lockable tray in response to the print request being from the user authorized to use the at least one lockable tray in printing, and cause the printing device to perform printing of the print image from the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device onto the unsecured recording medium in a selected one of the at least one unlockable tray in response to receipt of the print image from the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device; and a terminal device including a printer driver configured to generate the print request such that the print request generated by the printer driver includes, at least, the print image, a selected tray, and user identification information for identifying the user being a source of the print request.
An image forming system includes an image forming apparatus and a terminal device. The image forming apparatus integrates at least one of a copying device or a facsimile device with a printing device that prints images onto recording medium. The system features multiple trays, including at least one unlockable tray for storing unsecured recording medium and at least one lockable tray for storing secured recording medium, with the lockable tray equipped with a lock mechanism. The apparatus stores information identifying which trays are lockable and uses this data to control tray selection. For copying or faxing operations, the system disables selection of lockable trays, ensuring printing only occurs on unsecured medium from unlockable trays. For print requests, the system verifies user authorization before allowing printing on secured medium from lockable trays. The terminal device includes a printer driver that generates print requests containing the print image, selected tray, and user identification. The system ensures secure printing by restricting access to lockable trays based on user authorization, while allowing unrestricted access to unlockable trays for general copying or faxing tasks. This design enhances document security by segregating secured and unsecured media storage and controlling access accordingly.
8. The image forming system according to claim 7 , wherein the terminal device includes a print application configured to generate the print image, and the user identification information is identification information assigned to the print application individually.
This invention relates to an image forming system that enhances security and user tracking in printing operations. The system addresses the problem of unauthorized or untraceable printing by ensuring that print jobs are securely linked to specific users or applications. The system includes an image forming apparatus, a terminal device, and a server. The terminal device generates a print image and sends it to the server, which then transmits the print data to the image forming apparatus for printing. The system uniquely identifies users or applications to prevent unauthorized access and track print activity. The terminal device includes a print application that generates the print image, and the user identification information is specifically tied to this print application, ensuring that each application has its own distinct identifier. This allows the system to monitor and control printing at a granular level, improving security and accountability. The server manages authentication and authorization, ensuring that only authorized users or applications can initiate print jobs. The image forming apparatus processes the print data and produces the final output. This approach enhances security by preventing unauthorized printing and enables detailed tracking of print activity for auditing and management purposes.
9. The image forming system according to claim 8 , wherein the terminal device is configured to abort generation of the print request in response to the print image not satisfying a set condition.
The invention relates to an image forming system designed to improve print job efficiency by preventing unnecessary printing when certain conditions are not met. The system includes an image forming apparatus and a terminal device connected to the apparatus. The terminal device generates a print request based on a print image, which is then transmitted to the image forming apparatus for printing. To optimize resource usage, the terminal device is configured to analyze the print image before generating the print request. If the print image fails to satisfy a predefined condition—such as resolution, color accuracy, or content relevance—the terminal device aborts the print request generation process entirely, preventing the image forming apparatus from processing or printing the image. This ensures that only valid or high-quality print jobs are executed, reducing wasted resources and improving overall system efficiency. The system may also include additional features, such as user notifications or alternative processing options, to handle cases where the print image does not meet the required conditions. The invention is particularly useful in environments where print quality and resource management are critical, such as offices or industrial settings.
10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the memory is configured to store the information such that the information stored in the memory further indicates users authorized to use the at least one lockable tray in printing.
An image forming apparatus includes a memory that stores information about lockable trays within the apparatus. The stored information specifies which users are authorized to use each lockable tray for printing. The apparatus ensures that only authorized users can access and print from designated trays, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized use of specific printing resources. This feature is particularly useful in shared environments where different users or departments may require restricted access to certain trays, such as those containing confidential or department-specific materials. The memory stores user authorization data in a structured format, allowing the apparatus to verify permissions before permitting access to a tray. The apparatus may include additional components, such as a control unit that processes the stored information to enforce access restrictions and a user interface that prompts users for authentication before granting access. The system ensures that only authenticated and authorized users can retrieve printed documents from the specified trays, maintaining confidentiality and operational efficiency.
11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the image formation controller is configured to determine, based on the information, whether the user is authorized to use the at least one lockable tray in printing by, extracting, from the print request, user identification information that uniquely identifies the user as a source of the print request, and analyzing the user identification information and the information stored in the memory to determine whether the user is authorized the use the at least one lockable tray in printing.
An image forming apparatus includes a lockable tray for storing print media and a memory storing user authorization information. The apparatus determines whether a user is authorized to use the lockable tray by extracting user identification information from a print request and comparing it with the stored authorization data. The apparatus processes the print request only if the user is authorized, ensuring secure access to the lockable tray. The lockable tray may be physically secured to prevent unauthorized access, and the apparatus may include a user interface for managing tray access permissions. The system enhances security by restricting print media access to authorized users, preventing unauthorized use of specific trays. The apparatus may also include a controller that manages tray locking mechanisms and verifies user credentials before allowing access. This ensures that only permitted users can retrieve printed documents from designated trays, improving document security in shared environments.
12. The image forming apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the image forming apparatus further comprises: a touch screen configured to, display the display such that selection of the at least one lockable tray is disabled for the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device, and accept the selection for the image forming apparatus such that the selection of the at least one lockable tray is prohibited for the at least one of the copying device and the facsimile device.
An image forming apparatus includes a touch screen that displays a user interface for managing access to lockable trays. The touch screen is configured to disable selection of at least one lockable tray for specific functions, such as copying or faxing, while allowing selection for other functions like printing. The apparatus ensures that once a tray is locked for a particular function, it cannot be selected for that function, preventing unauthorized or unintended use. The touch screen also accepts user input to enforce these restrictions, ensuring consistent access control across different functions. This system enhances security and operational efficiency by preventing unauthorized access to specific trays for certain tasks, such as copying or faxing, while maintaining flexibility for other operations. The apparatus may include additional features, such as a printing function, and the touch screen may further display options to enable or disable tray access based on user permissions or device settings. The design ensures that locked trays remain inaccessible for restricted functions, improving workflow management and security in multi-functional devices.
Cooperative Patent Classification codes for this invention. Click any code to explore related patents in that topic.
June 22, 2018
January 21, 2020
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